What do biological theories of crime suggest?

Biological theories of crime propose that criminal behavior can be traced back to genetic and physiological factors inherent in individuals. This perspective posits that certain biological traits, including genetic predispositions and neurophysiological variations, can influence a person’s propensity toward criminal activity. For instance, some studies suggest that variations in brain chemistry or structure may correlate with aggressive or antisocial behavior, indicating a biological influence on actions typically classified as criminal.

In contrast, the other options focus on social learning, cultural norms, and economic circumstances as primary factors in criminal behavior. While these theories emphasize the role of environment and external influences in shaping behavior, biological theories hone in on the intrinsic attributes of individuals, thus providing a distinct lens through which to analyze crime. This biological viewpoint has sparked debate and research into the extent to which environment interacts with biology in the development of criminal behavior.